DA Eastern Cape woos voters in Cradock, Middelburg and Graaff-Reinet

JULY 12, 2016

In an effort to win voters ahead of the 2016 Local Government Elections, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Eastern Cape on Tuesday said that it has solutions to the socio-economic challenges faced by the residents of the Karoo.

"The maintenance of existing infrastructure and infrastructure-led growth is the DA’s alternative to the ANC-led Inxuba Yethemba municipality’s neglect," said Athol Trollip, the DA Eastern Cape's Provincial Leader.

"Cradock continues to suffer regular raw sewerage spills into the Fish River and residents having to deal with contaminated tap water.

"What is needed is an environment that inspires confidence for the private sector to invest here and create jobs."

He said that furthermore, the DA’s manifesto focuses on creating a comprehensive Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), which fairly benefits all recipients, not just a connected few, as reported to the DA in Middelburg recently.

"Where we govern, we focus on preventing corrupt practices by excluding councillors and other public representatives from EPWP recruitment and by opening up the tender process at the adjudication stage," Trollip said.

"Where we govern, we do so with honesty and by responsiveness. We stop corruption, provide better services for all and work hard to create many more jobs and opportunities for all."

He said that the Camdeboo Municipality, which includes Graaff-Reinet, has been burdened by the ANC "with the bankrupt Ikwezi Municipality".

"It is unfathomable that the well-run, DA-led Baviaans Municipality has been included in this new municipality.

"I urge voters to be inspired by the legacy of Dr. Beyers Naude, whom after the new municipality is named. He fought against oppression. These are same values that the DA are fighting for," Trollip said.

"Where we govern, we want to build on the progress we have already made. Where we do not govern yet, we want to bring the change to your town that will stop corruption, create jobs and deliver better services."